Amber heat alert extended to 16 August as London hits 38.1C
UKHSA warns vulnerable groups face higher health risks during prolonged high temperatures
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London remains under an amber heat health alert until 10am on 16 August, the UK Health Security Agency confirmed. The warning follows Thursday’s record temperature of 38.1C at Kew Gardens, the highest of the year so far. Other regions in England will stay under alert until 9pm on 15 August.
Health risks rise for vulnerable groups
Barnet faces thunderstorms and seven days of rain after record 38.1°C heat
Forecasters predict showers from 18 August, with temperatures dropping to 13°C by midweek
Polly Ashmore, acting public health consultant at UKHSA, said the heat may increase health risks, particularly for older adults and those with existing conditions. She urged residents to drink water, avoid midday sun, and keep indoor spaces cool. Social care services have been told to prepare for higher demand.
High temperatures can pose serious risks for people living with dementia if they are not supported to stay cool and hydrated. People with dementia may not always recognise when they need a drink or wear suitable clothing.
Angelo Makri, senior knowledge officer, Alzheimer’s Society
UKHSA analysis published this week found that around one in six heat-associated deaths in England last summer were linked to dementia. Angelo Makri of the Alzheimer’s Society said carers should ensure those with dementia drink enough and wear light clothing. Homes should be kept cool to reduce risks.
Barnet faces first rain in weeks on 17 August as heat health alert remains
Light showers expected in the afternoon, with temperatures staying above 20°C during wet days
Water supplies under pressure
Reservoir levels in England have fallen to 66%, down three percentage points in a week. That is nearly 14 points below the long-term average for August. MPs have called on the Prime Minister to speed up plans for nine new reservoirs by 2050, after a 30-year gap in construction.
Wildfires this year have already matched the total for the whole of 2025, according to UKHSA data. Climate change is believed to be driving the increase in extreme weather. The Met Office has recorded three days above 37C in 2026, the first year that has happened.
What residents should do
UKHSA advises checking on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, and drinking water regularly. Light clothing and cool homes can reduce heat-related illness. Social care providers have been told to review emergency plans.
Questions this report answers
+How long will the amber heat alert last in London?
The UK Health Security Agency has extended London’s amber heat health alert until 10am on 16 August. Other regions in England will remain under alert until 9pm on 15 August. The warning follows record temperatures of 38.1C at Kew Gardens.
+Who is most at risk during the heatwave?
UKHSA warns that older adults and those with existing health conditions face higher risks. Around one in six heat-associated deaths last summer were linked to dementia. People with dementia may not recognise when they need water or suitable clothing.
+What should residents do to stay safe?
UKHSA advises drinking plenty of water, avoiding the sun between 11am and 3pm, and keeping homes cool. Residents should check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Social care services have been told to prepare for increased demand.
+How low are England’s reservoir levels?
Reservoir levels in England have dropped to 66%, down from 69% the previous week. That is nearly 14 percentage points below the long-term average for August. MPs have called for faster construction of nine new reservoirs planned by 2050.
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